healthier slow cooker chicken tortilla soup

Steps

1. # How to Make a Healthier Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
3. Craving a comforting bowl of **chicken tortilla soup** without the guilt? This **healthier slow cooker version** is packed with flavor, lean protein, and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner, this recipe is easy to make and customizable to suit your dietary needs. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious, **nutritious chicken tortilla soup** that your whole family will love.
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7. ## **Ingredients for Healthier Chicken Tortilla Soup**
8. - 1 lb **boneless, skinless chicken breasts** (or thighs for extra flavor)
9. - 1 can (15 oz) **low-sodium black beans**, drained and rinsed
10. - 1 can (15 oz) **diced tomatoes** (no salt added)
11. - 1 cup **frozen corn kernels** (or fresh corn)
12. - 1 medium **onion**, diced
13. - 3 cloves **garlic**, minced
14. - 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
15. - 4 cups **low-sodium chicken broth**
16. - 1 tsp **ground cumin**
17. - 1 tsp **chili powder**
18. - 1/2 tsp **smoked paprika**
19. - 1/4 tsp **cayenne pepper** (optional for heat)
20. - 1 lime, juiced
21. - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
22. - **Optional toppings**: avocado slices, baked tortilla strips, Greek yogurt (instead of sour cream), shredded cheese
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26. ## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
28. ### **1. Prep the Ingredients**
29. - Dice the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
30. - Drain and rinse the black beans.
31. - If using fresh corn, cut it off the cob.
33. ### **2. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker**
34. - Place the **chicken breasts** in the bottom of the slow cooker.
35. - Add the diced onion, bell pepper, garlic, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
36. - Pour in the **low-sodium chicken broth**.
37. - Sprinkle in the **cumin**, **chili powder**, **smoked paprika**, and **cayenne pepper** (if using).
39. ### **3. Cook on Low Heat**
40. - Cover the slow cooker and set it to **low heat** for 6-8 hours or **high heat** for 3-4 hours.
41. - The chicken should be tender and easily shredded with a fork when done.
43. ### **4. Shred the Chicken**
44. - Remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks.
45. - Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
47. ### **5. Add Fresh Flavors**
48. - Squeeze in the juice of **1 lime** and stir well.
49. - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
51. ### **6. Serve and Garnish**
52. - Ladle the soup into bowls.
53. - Top with fresh **cilantro**, **avocado slices**, and a dollop of **Greek yogurt** for creaminess.
54. - For a crunchy texture, add **baked tortilla strips** (made by baking corn tortillas until crispy).
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58. ## **Tips for a Healthier Soup**
59. - Use **low-sodium broth** and canned goods to reduce sodium content.
60. - Swap sour cream for **Greek yogurt** to add protein and reduce fat.
61. - Skip frying tortilla strips and bake them instead for a lighter crunch.
62. - Add extra veggies like zucchini or spinach for more nutrients.
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66. ## **Why This Recipe Works**
67. This **slow cooker chicken tortilla soup** is a healthier twist on a classic favorite. It’s **high in protein**, **low in calories**, and packed with fiber-rich ingredients like black beans and veggies. The slow cooker does all the work, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s **gluten-free** and can easily be made **dairy-free** by omitting cheese and yogurt.
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71. Enjoy this **hearty, healthy chicken tortilla soup** that’s perfect for any season. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag #HealthyTortillaSoup!

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